1 freewriting developed by peter elbow. 2 freewriting: a definition this is informal, personal...
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Freewriting
Developed by
Peter Elbow
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Freewriting: A Definition
This is informal, personal writing in which the writer begins writing and keeps writing in order to capture thoughts and generate ideas. The key is to keep the pen or pencil moving steadily over the paper without pausing. The writer should continue long enough that the obvious thoughts are recorded and the brain has to “push” for new material.
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Freewriting Directions
Start writing and keep writing Don’t worry about conventions of spelling,
punctuation, or grammar If you get stuck, write, “I don’t know what to
write,” or repeat or rephrase your last thought
BUT—KEEP WRITING!!!!
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The Process
1. Start writing and keep writing for 5-20 minutes (depending on age and skill of writer).
2. Read, reflect, and review what has been written.3. Write a “center of gravity” statement—a summary
of what was written and/ or an assertion that goes beyond the summary.
4. Repeat the process, using the center of gravity statement as the starting point for the next freewriting.
5. Repeat process if needed.6. Shape for an audience.
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Freewriting Types
Unfocused Freewriting: the writer chooses the topic and is free to shift from subject to subject. Often this is used to generate ideas for a piece of writing on any topic of the writer’s choice.
Focused Freewriting: the writer focuses attention on a specific subject, often in response to an assigned task. Focused Freewriting is often used in classrooms.
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Focused Freewriting Stages
Stage 1 Focus freewrite. start writing
Develop center of keep writing
gravity statement.
Stage 2 Focus freewrite on chaos
center of gravity. disorientation
Reflect and devise
center of gravity.
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Focused Freewriting con’t.
Stage 3 Focus freewrite on last Emerging sense center of gravity. of final center of
Begin to shape text gravity.
around final center of
gravity.
Stage 4 Shape draft.
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Benefits of Freewriting
Non-threatening. Takes advantage of the generative powers of
writing. Starts ideas flowing. Gets words on paper easily. Focuses attention.